The Role of Media and Social Networks in Deepening the United States Partisan Divide with a Focus on Generation Z

Abstract

This dissertation explores the role of media and social networks in deepening the partisan divide in the USA with a focus on Generation Z. This work synthesises theoretical and conceptual approaches from political communication, media studies, and digital sociology to examine how lastly research the US media environment has exacerbated political polarisation. We provide theoretical foundations for analysing the relationship between media and social networks and political polarisation and we provide and highlight the mechanisms by which media consumption has influenced partisan attitudes. The work also examines the role of social networks in the 2016 and 2020 elections, as well as their role in fostering divisiveness and negativity, and the impact of media polarisation on democratic cohesion and media literacy, and finally, a review of strategies to depolarise partisanship.